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Recruitment

Firefighter Recruitment

"How to Apply"

"Have a Go"

The Wholetime Firefighter

Firefighter - National Job Description

The Retained Firefighter

Becoming a Firefighter

The role of a Firefighter

What is the recruitment process?

What training will I receive?

What is the salary?

Frequently asked questions

Other Fire Service Careers

Support Staff

Control Staff

- A typical day in the life of
a Control Operator

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Becoming a Firefighter

Frequently Asked Questions

How to apply

What will I need to do to become a Firefighter?
You need to be fit and healthy with good eye sight and complete the selection process, which includes fitness and practical tests, written tests, interview and medical.

Entry Criteria:
•Be over the age of 18 upon completing training school
•Good eyesight and colour perception
•Good medical background
•Of good character
•Have no unspent criminal convictions under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974

If I am successful what salary can I expect?
Starting on a trainee rate of £19,918 rising to £26,548 when fully competent in the role (it can take 4 years to reach this stage).

Is there a pension scheme?
Yes. The Fire Brigade offers an excellent Final Salary Pension arrangement, to which the Fire Authority also contributes.

How much annual leave would I be entitled to?
Firefighters have 28 days annual leave each year. You will also receive a paid holiday on, or in respect of, public holidays and two extra statutory holidays.

Are there any career prospects?
Yes, there are real promotion prospects. To achieve this you will undertake a test of your potential to develop into a higher role. If successful you will attend an Assessment and Development Centre (ADC) to determine the programme you require in preparation for your next role. Once completed and competence has been demonstrated, you will be ready for promotion.

What does the training involve?
You will receive 12 weeks basic skills training at Severn Park Training Centre in Avonmouth. This is known as Phase 1.

After you have acquired these skills you will be assigned to a station and a watch. Your development will continue as you apply your newly acquired skills in the workplace (Phase 2).

During this phase of your development you will be regularly assessed to ensure you are demonstrating your competence within your role.

Once you have demonstrated competence in all areas of your role you will receive full rate of pay for a Firefighter. You will then move into Phase 3 of your Development Programme which will ensure you maintain your skills.


What hours will I be expected to work?
An average working week is one of 42 hours and limited overtime is payable when appropriate. Working a shift pattern of 2 day shifts 0900 - 1800, 2 night shifts 1800 - 0900 and 4 days off.

Will I have to pay for my uniform?
No. The uniform, protective clothing and personal equipment required for firefighting duties are provided free of charge.

Is Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service recruiting this year?
We have now closed our application line for wholetime recruitment for this year (2008) and do not intend to be recruiting again for the next few years. When we have further details our web page here will be updated.

Can I get any further information?

Yes. If you need further information please contact our Headquarters at Quedgeley, Gloucester on 01452 753333 or visit the Government's fire web portal Fire Gateway:-

Image and Link to Fire Gateway website

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